My tenant owes me money.

I’m a landlord, do I have to hire a lawyer to evict my tenant?

If your building is owned by a corporation (registered as a LLC), you are required to hire a lawyer to represent you in Housing Court. You can contact the bar association for...

What happens if the tenant pays everything by the deadline?

In a nonpayment case, if the tenant pays all of the back rent, he or she can stay in the apartment. You are required by law to file a satisfaction of judgment...

What if the tenant doesn’t pay by the deadline?

If you signed a stipulation that did not include a final judgment, you will have to go back to the judge to request the judgment and the warrant of eviction. You will...

What happens after the tenant is evicted?

You can ask the marshal for a legal possession or a full eviction. In a legal possession the marshal will change the locks and leave the tenant’s belongings in the apartment. In...

What is a nonpayment case?

A nonpayment is a proceeding filed by a landlord against a tenant to collect back rent. You are asking the Housing Court to order your tenant to pay rent or be evicted....

How do I prepare for my court date?

You will need to bring the following documents on your court date: original or certified copy of the deed the lease for the apartment (even if it is expired) certified copies of...

What is a defense?

A defense is a reason why your tenant claims he or she did not pay some or all of the rent that you claim he or she owes. Your tenant might claim...

What if the tenant and I cannot reach an agreement?

If you and the tenant cannot come to an agreement after a conference, you can ask for a trial. A trial may be scheduled for a different date or it may be...

What happens next?

If you settled the case, you will sign a stipulation of settlement. It may order the tenant to make a payment or trace a money order or find some further documentation from...